Gosh, it seems so unfair that you had to go through this. My heart aches for you.
I can only imagine how overwhelming this must have be. Growing up without a parent.

But it sounds like you found a way to find some strength in it all.

I wouldn't be quickly dismissive of your dad. There are many things that might have contributed to that which I might not be aware of. But I celebrate your mom for stepping in even when things got tough, because they always do. She's the true MVP.